When Cal State East Bay tipped off its CCAA opener last Thursday at San Francisco State, Aloha Akaka made sure the Pioneers started conference play with a statement. The junior guard tied her Pioneer career-high with 17 points, leading the team to a hard-fought 69-61 victory and pushing East Bay to a perfect 2-0 start in conference play. For Akaka, it was more than just a big game. It was a moment that reflected years of perseverance and growth.

Akaka's journey to Hayward began in Hawaii, where she graduated from Maryknoll High School in Honolulu. A multi-sport standout, she helped her school capture one basketball championship and three softball titles before continuing her basketball career at Shoreline Community College. After two seasons there, she knew Cal State East Bay was the right next step. "East Bay felt like the right fit for me academically, athletically, and personally," Akaka said. "The campus environment and team culture stood out right away, and I could tell it was a place where I'd be supported, challenged, and able to reach my goals on and off the court. I liked that I could grow as a student while also improving as a player, and being part of a team that pushes each other to be better every day really made this feel like home."

But her path hasn't been without obstacles. Akaka has faced multiple injuries throughout her career, as setbacks that tested her resolve and mental toughness. "One of the biggest challenges I've faced in my athletic journey has been dealing with multiple injuries," she admitted. "Being sidelined for a long time was really tough mentally and physically, but I stayed disciplined, worked hard in rehab, and kept faith that things would work out. I focused on staying positive for my team and helping in any way I could, whether that was encouraging my teammates or helping out in practice. This experience has taught me patience, resilience, and determination, and it's made me even more motivated to succeed both on and off the court."

That resilience was on full display in the CCAA opener, where Akaka's scoring punch and leadership helped the Pioneers secure a key early-season win. Her performance is a testament to the work she's put in and to the support system that's fueled her journey. "I think that my parents inspire me the most because they've done so much for me to get to this point in my life," Akaka said. "I just want to make them proud and be able to give back what they gave me."

As East Bay continues its conference campaign, Akaka's story is one of determination and gratitude, which is a reminder that success often comes from overcoming adversity. And if last Thursday was any indication, the Pioneers have a leader ready to rise to every challenge.